Federation opposes to proposed coal based power projects

Udupi, May 17 (UNI) The Federation of Anti-coal based Thermal project movement had strongly opposed the proposed 11 coal based power projects in the state as it would create severe water problem besides displacement and deforestation.

Addressing the press conference, the state convener of the Federation Major General (Dr) Sudhir Ombatthukere and Mr. Shankar Sharma said that the Federation had already filed petition before the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission(KERC). It also presented its arguments earlier during the two public hearings held by KERC against coal based projects. It was expected to submit its report the new government soon.

Mr. Sharma who is a leading electrical consultant to many electrical industries in the state said the coal based projects were not suited for Karnataka as it would need large water requirement to run the project.

Refuting the argument of acute power shortage in the state resulting in the need for going for coal based power projects, Mr.

Sharma said that the peak demand in the state was 5500 mw as against the total power production capacity of 7700 mw. If the department takes adequate steps to bring down the highest 30 per cent transmission and distribution (T and D) losses to the international loss level of six per cent and increase the efficiency, the existing power production could able to meet the present demands without any need to go for additional power production.

He said that there was also need for effective promotional steps to be taken on unconventional energy sources like solar energy sources and biomass plants. The federation was aimed at creating public awareness against coal based thermal plants in the state through lectures and debates in schools and colleges and publishing handbooks on impacts of coal based thermal projects.

The Federation had also recently formed the branch unit of the Federation in Mangalore. It had also proposed to hold a state level convention during August next in Belgaum by inviting experts in the field and government officials.

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